New owners for Walpole St Andrew cheese shop

A couple who love being customers of a Walpole St Andrew cheese shop are about to become the new owners.

As someone partial to cheese and crackers regularly, Peter Pooley’s eyes lit up when he saw that Cheese ‘n’ Bees owners Pete and Bev Davies were ready to pass on the business.

And so a quick chain of events led to Peter and wife Michelle, of Terrington St Clement, taking over from July 1.

“There was a bit of competition so we’re delighted to get this opportunity and can’t wait to get started,” said Peter about their venture into retail.

Michelle added: “Pete and Bev have made Cheese ‘n’ Bees so popular that we’ll keep the shop the same and look to build on its success.”

Online ordering is being introduced, with Peter building a website to showcase the goods which, along with more than 60 varieties of cheese, include chilled meats, honey, cider, crackers and stuffed olives.

Bespoke platters, handmade confectionery and a range of wines are part of future plans.

Customers like the provenance of the products, such as honey produced by Pete’s Cross Keys Bees and cider made within a stone’s throw of the orchard opposite the Market Lane shop. The Pooleys are adding Maldon Chocolates, of Snettisham, and North Creake’s Burn Valley Vineyard to the suppliers.

“Over time we’ll look to bring in more local products and open more days to suit customers’ requirements,” said Pete, who values good customer service, having run his own businesses, including Norfolk Mobile Valeting Group, which will continue. Michelle, who works for a NHS charity, will help out in the shop too.

Cheese ‘n’ Bees is open 10am-4pm Thursday to Saturday and 10am-2pm on Sundays.